Optimization of tribological properties of natural basalt/Synthetic E-Glass Fiber/Polymer nanocomposites modified with MWCNTs + SiO₂ using box behnken design (RSM)

Recently, lightweight nanocomposite materials were mostly preferred in automobile sliding parts such as bushes, clutch plates, piston pins, brake shoes, bearing races, and cylinder liners subjected to tribological failures plays a vital role. This study aims to investigate the impact of utilizing Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and Silicon dioxide (SiO₂) in equal proportions, with weight content variations of 0%, 1%, and 2%, in a polymer reinforced with natural basalt and synthetic glass fibers. The investigation will be conducted using a pin-on-disc wear test apparatus under dry sliding conditions, following ASTM standards. Three nanocomposite laminates were fabricated by manual layup method through the ultrasonication and magnetic stirring process Box-Benkhen Design (BBD) is employed to design experiments involving four input variables: filler content, load applied, distance of sliding, and velocity of sliding. The Response Surface Methodology (RSM) technique was employed to analyze the tribological properties. The study employed the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) technique to identify the primary factors and construct regression mathematical models for output responses. The results showed that the minimum friction coefficient and specific wear values were 0.159 and 0.0002 mm³/Nm, respectively, when employing a 1% filler weight, load applied 20 N, distance sliding 1000 m, and velocity of sliding 1 m/s. The minimum filler content, friction coefficient, and specific wear rates exerted the greatest influence followed by other factors.